With that in mind, those at the helm of this year’s campaign are asking Miltonians to reach deep into their pockets and give generously — as they always seem to do.

“I think it’s (the economy) going to be a challenge for any charity, but we know the generosity in Milton and we’re very confident that whatever climate we’re in now, people will step up,” said United Way board of directors president Lesley Mansfield.

Executive Director Anne Eadie said she’s already seen an increase in the services required of the 28 community service agencies funded by the local United Way as a result of the economy.

And it’s not difficult to imagine why.

Take the example of someone — a family breadwinner, perhaps — who loses his or her job in these uncertain times. He may become depressed and require the help of a mental health service, Eadie said. Or he might need credit counselling as he slips into debt, or the assistance of subsidized daycare or a food bank.

“It’s the ripple effect,” Eadie said.

Of course, Milton’s burgeoning population places added stress on its community service agencies, Eadie said.

The United Way of Milton is currently raising money for its 2008 campaign, which has a goal of $630,000. So far, $343,416 has been raised, which is right where they’d hope to be at this point, Eadie said, although the personal donations from residents have been a bit slower than previous years to come in.

Eadie said she thinks people are waiting to see what their own personal financial situations are before they donate, especially with Christmas approaching. She acknowledged that many of those giving this year will themselves feel the crunch of the economy.

Eadie emphasized that even small donations can go a along way.

Of the $630,000 goal, Eadie said the goal is to raise about $50,000 from personal — or residential — donations. The rest will come from sources including corporate donations, payroll deductions and three major fundraising events.

One message Eadie said she thinks still needs to get out is that people can designate their payroll deductions to their local United Way no matter where they work.

She said she’s confident the Milton community will come through as it always has.

“We ask a lot of the community and they really do come forward,” Eadie said.

Donations can be made on-line at www.miltonunitedway.ca .

For more information, visit the website or call (905) 875-2550.

Stephanie Hounsell can be reached at sthiessen@miltoncanadianchampion.com .